The Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Baba Jibrin Ndace, has called on journalists to embrace unity, kindness, and forgiveness in both their professional and personal lives.
He made this appeal during a night of tribute organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Chapter in honour of departed colleagues.
Ndace stressed the importance of relationships, urging journalists to build bridges rather than hold grudges.
“Don’t leave your office or home with anger toward anyone. Forgive, let go, and focus on fostering meaningful connections,” he said, emphasizing that life is too short for bitterness.
The DG recounted his personal experiences with the late Rafat and other departed colleagues, highlighting her dedication and resilience, even in challenging circumstances.
He shared how the VON team ensured her participation in a staff retreat by providing necessary accommodations despite bureaucratic hurdles.
“Sometimes, leadership requires making decisions that prioritize humanity over bureaucracy. I thank God for the wisdom to support her during that time. It is moments like these that define our common humanity,” Ndace remarked.
Ndace also urged journalists to introspect and exemplify the values they advocate for, particularly in the conduct of union affairs.
“As journalists who scrutinize others, we must also shine the light on ourselves. Elections are over; let us support the winners and work collectively for the betterment of our profession,” he added.
On behalf of the management and staff of VON, Ndace extended gratitude to the NUJ FCT Chapter for honouring the departed and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to truth and credible reporting.
He urged journalists to continue telling positive and believable stories about Nigeria and Africa, adding, “May the souls of our departed colleagues rest in peace.”
The National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Alhassan Yahaya, emphasized the inevitability of life and the fragility of human existence, urging colleagues to reflect on their actions and prioritize forgiveness as a step toward professional growth.
“A moment like this reminds us that life is fragile and inevitable. I appeal to all of us to let this date serve as a bridge for forgiveness. Let us forgive one another and focus on taking our profession to greater heights,” he said.
Yahaya eulogized the late journalists, particularly Rafat and Isaiah, describing them as exceptional professionals who left indelible marks in their careers.
He highlighted Rafat’s honesty and reliability, stating, ” Rafat was someone tested and trusted. She would look you in the face and tell you nothing but the truth.”
On Isaiah, Yahaya recounted a memorable encounter with him during his campaign for NUJ presidency, describing Isaiah as a supportive senior colleague whose counsel left a lasting impression.
The NUJ President commended the FCT council for organizing the tribute, acknowledging the difficulty of such engagements while stressing their importance in fostering remembrance and solidarity.
“I must commend the council for organizing this tribute. Although we do not like such engagements, it is vital to honour our fallen heroes and unite as a profession,” he noted.
Yahaya reassured the union’s commitment to supporting the families of the deceased journalists.
He pledged continued efforts to ensure the welfare and education of the late journalists’ children, emphasizing that the union would stand by the families in their time of need.
“On behalf of the union, we will continue to work closely with the families to ensure their children excel in school. This is our responsibility, and we will not shy away from it,” Yahaya affirmed.
He expressed gratitude to members and leaders of the union for their participation and leadership, urging them to uphold the values of unity and compassion.
The event, held in honour of four late journalists, served as a moment of reflection and collective commitment to strengthening the bonds within the journalism community.
The night of tribute was in honour of the Late Rafat Idris Salami, Late Ogonnaya Regina, Late Elder Isiah Abraham and Late Victor Oluwasegun.
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